Carndonagh residential unit still 'unsuitable' despite improvements, inspection finds 

The James Connolly Memorial residential unit in Carndonagh remains "unsuitable" as a premises despite improvements that have been made, an inspection by the State’s healthcare watchdog has found.

The residential home, which houses nine residents with a disability who have a range of complex medical and high support needs, was found to be compliant with three regulations, substantially compliant with six regulations and non-compliant with the premises regulation, in the inspection carried out in August.

The centre has been identified for de-congregation by the Health Service Executive (HSE)  as part of a national de-congregation plan. The HSE has plans to build new community group homes in Carndonagh and Buncrana to rehouse residents from the James Connolly Memorial residential unit.

READ NEXT: Former Donegal teacher in court on raft of sex abuse charges

The inspection by the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) found improvements were required in governance and management, positive behaviour support, safeguarding, residents’ rights, staffing, training and development, risk management and the premises provided.

In relation to the premises, the inspection found that while areas of the building had been improved, "it remained unsuitable". Five residents shared multi-occupancy dormitories and cubicles were provided for their beds and belongings. To shower, residents were required to undress in the dormitory and then travel across the corridor on a showering trolley to the shower room. Although privacy screens were provided Hiqa found this was not a suitable arrangement. Also, the shower trolley was wheeled into another resident’s bedroom to gain sufficient turning space. 

The Hiqa report said it was clear that the centre required a consistent leadership presence which would improve compliance and support a holistic safeguarding culture.

Inspectors observed that residents had active lives. While they were unable to verbally express their views, they used other communication methods. Some were observed smiling with staff and the interactions between them were kind, caring and respectful. Inspectors found that residents were supported to express their needs where possible.

The staffing regulation was found to be substantially compliant and staff raised concerns about the lack of consistent leadership in the centre. Staffing levels were reported to fluctuate and there was a high level of absenteeism.

Risk management procedures were found to be substantially compliant with five incidents reported to the chief inspector of social services that occurred over a four-month period up to June 2024. Four of these resulted in an injury that required attention at hospital. 

In response the HSE said it has taken actions to ensure the unit will become fully compliant with the Health Act 2007 regulations. 

It said the staffing roster has been reviewed to ensure adequate staffing is in place in the centre on a daily basis.

Other actions include ensuring that all staff will have completed all mandatory training and site-specific training within the agreed timeframe.

The HSE said it will continue to work to ensure that robust governance, quality and safety arrangements are in place at the unit to ensure high quality services are provided ongoing to all residents.